Jackson Brings Tram Back For Summer

Visitors to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort could only reach the 9,000-foot elevation for the past two summers, unless they chose to slog up higher on foot. This summer, the tram makes its return, whisking sightseers up to the 10,450-foot level on Rendezvous Mountain.

The new tram, which launched this winter, reinvents opportunities for summer fun at the resort. Contrary to the old tram, the windows in the new tram are bigger for better views of the Grand Teton, and seats allow for sitting down during the nine-minute ride. At the top of the tram, visitors can lounge in the afternoon sun on the deck of Corbet's Cabin for beer and barbecue.

The tram, which will run from Memorial weekend through September, accesses hiking trails along the summit of Rendezvous Mountain and the Teton Crest Trail. Paths go off into all of the canyons, to lakes, and to the base area. Allow several hours to hike back down the 4,139 feet to Teton Village.

Most of the resort's lift-accessed mountain biking trails cluster in lower elevations around Teewinot. However, riders can take an uphill-only road to climb to the top of Rendezvous Mountain and take the tram back down. No mountain bikes are permitted for uphill rides on the tram.

The resort also plans to open the Couloir Restaurant via Bridger Gondola access in evenings this summer. The base area also has a climbing wall and bungee trampoline.

This year's season pass holders can ride the tram this summer for free. Pass sales for the 2009-10 ski and snowboard season start in summer. The month of the August features the best rates.

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